Odita Sunday 
Kebbi Customs Area Command Holds First 2026 Parade, Reaffirms Discipline, Professionalism
By Odita Sunday
The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has held its first parade of the 2026 operational year, using the occasion to reinforce discipline, integrity and professionalism while conducting a comprehensive medical check-up for officers and men of the Command.
The parade, which brought together personnel across the Command, commenced with prayers and thanksgiving to Almighty God for life, unity and protection.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ibrahim M.M. MNIM, fdc, extended New Year greetings to officers and their families and paid solemn tribute to colleagues who lost their lives in the line of duty, offering prayers for the repose of their souls and comfort for their loved ones.
Addressing the officers, Comptroller Ibrahim expressed profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, who also serves as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, for his visionary leadership, consistent support and strong commitment to the welfare and professional growth of Customs personnel nationwide.
He noted that the CGC’s emphasis on discipline, innovation and professionalism continues to drive the Service towards greater efficiency and excellence.
The Area Controller stressed that the first parade of the year was more than a routine assembly, describing it as a moment for reflection, recommitment and renewed dedication to the core mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
He reminded officers of their responsibility to secure Nigeria’s borders, protect the national economy, curb smuggling and economic sabotage, while facilitating legitimate trade and revenue generation.
Comptroller Ibrahim charged officers to internalize and uphold the 7Cs of the Nigeria Customs Service Courtesy without loss of dignity, Clear questions, Careful examination, Clean hands in all respects, Command attention, Control situations and Consult colleagues describing them as essential guides for conduct at border posts, operational fields and within the Command.
He emphasized discipline as the foundation of the Service, warning that negligence and any form of betrayal of trust would not be tolerated, while dedication, loyalty and excellence would be duly recognized and rewarded.
Officers were reminded that they serve as ambassadors of the NCS and that their conduct, both on and off duty, reflects on the image of the Service.
Located along critical international borders with Niger and the Benin Republic, the Kebbi Area Command occupies a strategic frontline position in the fight against smuggling and illegal trade.
Comptroller Ibrahim expressed concern over prevailing security challenges along border corridors and urged officers to remain vigilant, proactive and security-conscious at all times.
He called for enhanced intelligence gathering, strict adherence to operational procedures and strengthened collaboration with sister security agencies, host communities and other stakeholders.
The Command also reiterated its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), highlighting ongoing and planned projects such as the construction of boreholes and the installation of solar-powered street lights in border communities to improve living conditions, foster goodwill and enhance security.
Officers Undergo Medical Screening
As part of the parade activities, a comprehensive medical screening was conducted for all personnel, underscoring the Command’s commitment to the health and well-being of its workforce.
Comptroller Ibrahim noted that a healthy force is critical to effective border security and trade facilitation, stressing that physical fitness and mental alertness are essential for optimal performance.
The Kebbi Area Command reaffirmed its resolve to remain disciplined, professional and united in line with the 7Cs of the Nigeria Customs Service. By prioritizing officer welfare, operational readiness and community engagement, the Command pledged to continue safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and economy with excellence and honour under the leadership of Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD.
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